Conclusions

The five case studies featured here - Kirkenes, Pajala, Inari, Teriberka and Ust-Tsilma - are part of the international research project NEO- BEAR, Neoliberal Governance, Local Communities and Sustainable Development in the Barents Euro-Arctic Region. The research has shown how neoliberal policies at the local level are a mix of new and old governance practices that sometimes lead to paradoxical situations.

What on earth is neoliberalism?

The extension of market relations and competition throughout society, including the sphere of social interactions

A governmentality for advanced liberal societies emphasizing local responsibility and social innovations

The role of the neoliberal state is to secure proper conditions for markets to function

To reduce direct governmental intervention in economic affairs

To maintain governmental support for the economy through legal, administrative and social measures